Broccoli is a member of the Cabbage or Brassica family. It was bred originally in Italy where it was one of the most favorite of vegetables, however its popularity didn't grow far beyond until about the 1500's where it was introduced in France, and to England in 1720. It was introduced to the United States in the early part of the 20th century from small family plots from Italy. In 1920 a group of Italian farmers in California did a trial shipment to Boston. It was an instant hit, and became a huge commercial vegetable from California where 95% of the nation's Broccoli is grown today. 

Broccoli is loaded with anti-oxidants, Vitamin A and C, high in calcium, iron and potassium. It is low in calories, only 40 per cup of cooked Broccoli. 

Purchase Broccoli allowing 1/2 lb. per person. Broccoli can be kept under refrigeration for up to a week if left unwashed and kept in covered container.

Broccoli are versatile and can be cooked many ways.

Great Broccoli sources on the Internet:

http://www.broccoli.com/farm/hist_origin.htm

http://www.broccoli.com/farm/farmtoc.htm